Gov. Nathan Deal is reporting an improvement in his personal finances as he heads into a competitive re-election bid four years after questions were raised about his sizeable debts.

Reports show Deal was helped in large part by the sale of a Gainesville auto salvage company he co-owned. Jimmy Allen, who oversees the governor's blind trust, said Wednesday that the governor liquidated some assets and reduced his debt by $1.8 million.

Candidates are required to detail their finances in disclosures filed with the state.

Among Deal's Republican opponents, Dalton Mayor David Pennington has the most wealth and access to cash while state schools Superintendent John Barge saw a significant decline in property values. Democrat Jason Carter reported a net worth of $656,000 due largely to his retirement and brokerage accounts.

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